In light of Road Safety Week 2019, we thought we would put together a blog on how you can stay safe on the road. This always needs to be applied to help keep you and other road users safe and alive.
Distracted driving is estimated to be a factor in around 50% of all traffic collisions, driving safety is not only beneficial to the driver, but also to all other road users and pedestrians.
Next time you head out on the road, remember the following tips on how to stay safe:
- Do not drink and drive under any circumstances. Click here for more information on drink-driving limits. Is it worth 3 penalty points, a fine or losing your licence?
- Do not use your mobile phone while driving, not only is it illegal but it puts you and all other road users at risk. Click here for more information on mobile phones and driving.
- Ensure your car is in a roadworthy condition.
- Regular vehicle maintenance and pre-trip inspection. The average cost of a car service in the UK is £125 and can help identify any problems and rectify some issues your car may have, keeping your car in good condition.
- Guard against distractions while driving. Set all devices, mirrors and controls prior to setting off.
- Always maintain safe stopping distances.
- If you’re driving for a long period of time, allow time for short breaks as driver fatigue can put you at risk.
How to stay safe on the road: Breakdown Safety
- If you face a breakdown or are helping someone who has broken down, turn hazard lights on and get the vehicle to a safe location.
- If a vehicle breaks down on the motorway, turn hazard lights on and wait behind the vehicle for a professional to arrive.
- Never get out of a vehicle to make a repair on a busy road. Get the vehicle to a safe place before carrying out any work.
Safety at level crossings
- Always stop when you see a red light flashing, don’t think you can drive on and potentially miss the oncoming train.
- Obey road signs when approaching a level crossing, make sure the tracks are clear in both directions before crossing.
- Don’t queue over a level crossing.
- Never pass another vehicle when approaching a level crossing.
It’s important that we all aim to be safer drivers, as we are responsible for keeping ourselves, other road users and pedestrians safe. By simply obeying the rules of the road, we save lives. If you want to know more about road safety and the Road Safety Week initiative, click here.
